NFL News 2014: Should the Washington Redskins Change Their Name? [Poll]
One of the most controversial topics in sports today is the Washington Redskins' name and logo.
Many people say the name and logo is offensive to Native Americans, while others believe differently. Numerous protesters voice their opinion every year during regular season games hoping that Redskins owner Daniel Snyder will change the name and logo. Snyder has said multiple times that he has no future plans of changing anything with the franchise.
Various arguments have been made on both sides of the debate:
Why They Should Change the Name
The history of the Redskins' controversial name goes back to the 1950s and former owner George Preston Marshall. He once said, "We'll start signing Negroes when the Harlem Globetrotters start signing whites." Marshall left a winning, but notorious and racist legacy in Washington.
Unlike other sports tribal names that imply something, the term "Redskins" is clearly derogatory against Native Americans. Just because a person is Native American obviously doesn't mean they have red skin. If the Redskins were to change their name, it may lead to others following, even at lower levels, such as college and high school athletics. The Redskins trademark has already been canceled by the United States Patent Office.
Although not everybody is offended by the name and logo, a lot of people feel the Redskins should be forced to change their name. It would save the NFL a lot of lawsuits and make them more credible, especially in the Native American community.
Why They Should Keep the Redskins Name
The Redskins don't have the only controversial name or logo in sports. There are many others such as the Cleveland Indians, Chicago Blackhawks, Kansas City Chiefs, Atlanta Braves and the Vancouver Canucks. Congress may have voiced their opinion on a name change, but some Native Americans have said they are not offended by the name.
There are also many high schools throughout the country that use the term "Redskins" as their team name. Are we not seeing protests at those schools because they don't generate as much revenue? Is an offensive term only "offensive" when millions of dollars are being generated?
Even though some protesters show their dissatisfaction toward the franchise and owner, the name and logo haven't hurt anyone. In fact, the Redskins have donated a lot money to various groups and charities, including Native Americans.
Weighing In on the Controversy
The case is always being made for both sides. Of course, Redskins fans who have been watching their team play for decades don't want a change at all. Many people in the younger demographics seem to favor a name change as opposed to older generations.
Where do you stand? Latin Post invites you to vote in our poll and voice your opinion.
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